Brand name: Fosamax
(Osteofos , Alendronate Sodium)
Pronounced: FAH-suh-max
Generic name: Alendronate sodium
Why is Fosamax prescribed?
Fosamax is prescribed for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis,
the brittle bone disease, in postmenopausal women. It is also used
to increase bone mass in men with osteoporosis, and is prescribed for
both men and women who have developed a form of osteoporosis sometimes
caused by steroid medications such as prednisone. This drug can also
be used to relieve Paget's disease of bone, a painful condition that
weakens and deforms the bones.
Most important fact about Fosamax
For Fosamax to be effective, you must take the tablets without food
or other medications, exactly as directed.
How should you use medication?
Fosamax is effective only when each tablet or bottle of oral solution
is taken with a full glass of plain water first thing in the morning,
at least 30 minutes before the first food, beverage, or other medication.
If you can wait longer before eating or drinking, Fosamax will be absorbed
better. Do not lie down after taking Fosamax until at least 30 minutes
have passed and you've had something to eat.
Avoid chewing or sucking on the tablet; it can cause mouth sores.
You should take calcium and vitamin D supplements if you don't get
enough in your diet. Avoid smoking and alcohol. Weight-bearing exercise
can also strengthen bones.
Storage instructions...
Keep the container tightly closed and store at room temperature. Do
not freeze the oral solution.
Fosamax side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity,
inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine
if it is safe for you to continue using Fosamax.
* Side effects may include:
Abdominal pain, Acid regurgitation, bone and joint pain, constipation, diarrhea,
gas, indigestion, muscle pain, nausea
Why should Fosamax not be prescribed?
You should not take Fosamax if the calcium level in your blood is
low. Avoid Fosamax if it causes an allergic reaction.
You will not be able to take Fosamax if you are unable to stand or
sit upright for at least 30 minutes. You must also avoid the drug if
your esophagus is not working properly due to strictures or achalasia
(a swallowing disorder).
If you're prone to swallowing air or choking when you drink something,
you should not use the oral solution.
Special warnings about Fosamax
Fosamax is not recommended for women on hormone
replacement therapy, or for women with kidney problems.
Be sure to tell your doctor if you have trouble swallowing or have
any digestive problems, including heartburn or ulcers. Fosamax may
cause problems in your esophagus such as inflammation, ulcers, bleeding,
and in rare cases, blockage or perforation.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Fosamax
Combining aspirin with a Fosamax dose of more than 10 milligrams per
day will increase the likelihood of stomach upset.
Calcium supplements such as Caltrate, antacids such as Riopan, and
some other oral medications will interfere with the absorption of Fosamax,
so wait at least 30 minutes after taking Fosamax before you take anything
else.
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The effects of Fosamax during pregnancy and breastfeeding have not
been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant,
notify your doctor immediately. It is not known whether Fosamax appears
in breast milk. The drug is not recommended for nursing mothers.
Recommended dosage for Fosamax
TREATMENT OF POSTMENOPAUSAL OSTEOPOROSIS
Overdosage
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you
suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
* Symptoms of Fosamax overdose may include:
Heartburn, inflammation of the esophagus or stomach, ulcer, upset stomach
If you miss a dose...
If you are taking Fosamax on a daily basis, do not take a missed
dose later in the day, Instead, skip it and go back to your regular
schedule the next morning.
If you are taking Fosamax once a week, take 1 tablet or 1 bottle
of oral solution the morning after you remember, then return to your
original once-weekly schedule on the chosen day. Do not take 2 doses
on the same day
